Gourmet Smoked Gouda and Bacon Cheese Ball

1.Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded smoked Gouda, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese.

2.Add the crumbled bacon, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly using a sturdy spoon or a hand mixer on low speed until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

3.Stir in the finely chopped chives. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if necessary.

4.Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Scrape the entire cheese mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap.

5.Gather the edges of the plastic wrap and form the mixture into a tight, smooth ball shape. Seal the plastic wrap tightly around the cheese ball.

6.Refrigerate the cheese ball for a minimum of 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the ball to firm up completely.

7.Just before serving, prepare the coating. On a shallow plate, combine the finely chopped nuts and chopped fresh parsley.

8.Remove the chilled cheese ball from the plastic wrap. Roll the cheese ball gently in the nut and parsley mixture, pressing the coating firmly onto all sides until completely covered.

9.Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter and serve immediately with assorted crackers, pretzels, or vegetable sticks.